Kamal Haasan’s Thug Life Banned in Karnataka Over Kannada Language Remark
Kamal Haasan’s upcoming film Thug Life, scheduled for release on June 5, has been banned in Karnataka following a controversy over the actor’s recent remark about the Kannada language. The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) announced the ban on Friday, citing public outrage and protests over Haasan’s statement that “Kannada is born out of Tamil.”
The controversial comment was made during the audio launch of Thug Life in Chennai on May 24. The actor’s assertion sparked immediate backlash from pro-Kannada organisations, including the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, who called it disrespectful to the Kannada language and its speakers.
Sa Ra Govindu, a prominent member of the KFCC, addressed the media, confirming the decision to ban the film in Karnataka. “There is no apology from Kamal Haasan. Therefore, we will not release the film in Karnataka. The KFCC stands with the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike and other Kannada organisations,” he stated. “When there is pressure from language organisations, we must act accordingly,” he added.
In the wake of the controversy, pro-Kannada activists staged protests across the state. Banners of Thug Life were torn in protest, and demonstrations were held near INOX cinema in Belagavi. The Karnataka Rakshana Vedike filed a formal complaint against Haasan, accusing him of hurting the sentiments of Kannadigas.
The KFCC had earlier issued a 24-hour ultimatum to Haasan to apologise for his remark, warning that the film would face a ban in the absence of a formal apology. However, the actor did not comply, standing firm on his statement.
Reacting to the controversy, Kamal Haasan told reporters in Thiruvananthapuram, “I’ve been threatened before. If I’m wrong, I’ll apologise. If I’m not, I won’t. This is my lifestyle—please don’t tamper with it.”
He further elaborated on his comment, saying it was made “out of love” and based on historical understanding. “What I said was out of love, and a lot of historians have taught me about language history. I didn’t mean to offend anyone. Politicians are not qualified to talk about languages, including me. Let us leave these in-depth discussions to historians, archaeologists, and language experts,” he said.
The controversy also drew criticism from Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who commented that Haasan may lack knowledge about the Kannada language’s “long-standing” and independent heritage. The CM urged public figures to be cautious and respectful when speaking about regional languages and cultures.
Thug Life, directed by Mani Ratnam and starring Kamal Haasan in the lead role, has generated significant anticipation ahead of its release. However, the ban in Karnataka could impact its box office performance in one of India’s major regional markets.
As of now, the ban remains in effect, with no indication of a resolution unless Kamal Haasan issues a formal apology. The situation underscores the sensitivity surrounding linguistic identity in India, where language continues to be a deeply personal and political matter.
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